Celebrating Creativity and Sustainability
We are dedicated to fostering connections through education and culture for a sustainable planet.
Our Commitment to Cultural Change
The New York International Contemporary Art Society (NYICAS), in collaboration with Saphira & Ventura Gallery, the Institute Bienal Amazônia, and the Home Gallery Franchise, forms a global cultural network founded in 2008 by Brazilian American artist Alcinda Saphira and the Brazilian American economist Dr. Louis Ventura.
900+
Artists and Architects Collaborated
150+
Exhibitions Hosted
200+
Workshops Conducted
Innovative Art Events
Our exhibitions feature contemporary artists, architects, and innovative designs focused on sustainability.
Collaborative Projects
Partnering with various organizations to create impactful art initiatives that inspire change.
Educational Workshops
We offer workshops aimed at fostering creativity and sustainability in art and design.
Global Exhibitions
Showcasing international talent in art design and architecture through immersive exhibitions.
WHAT WE DO
We deliver comprehensive educational programs that support cultural exchange
For over two decades, the New York International Contemporary Art Society (NYICAS)—in collaboration with its global network of affiliated partners—has curated and produced more than 100 international exhibitions of contemporary art, design, and architecture. In addition to these major exhibitions, we have facilitated hundreds of symposia, workshops, cultural forums, and professional meetings, fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration among artists, scholars, innovators, and global communities.
Through the NYICAS-Academy, directed by Dr. Louis Ventura, we deliver comprehensive educational programs that support cultural exchange and empower individuals dedicated to shaping a more just world and sustainable planet. These programs are open to academics, entrepreneurs, students, professionals, and cultural enthusiasts committed to global engagement and innovation.
NYICAS also produces and publishes exhibition catalogues, documentary films, and original multimedia content that extend the reach and impact of our work. We collaborate with creative industry brands to amplify their voices and integrate them into broader cultural and sustainability conversations.
Our Art Projects and Editions are developed in close collaboration with artists, architects, designers, and technologists, each one centered around the creator’s vision. These projects are produced and published by the NYICAS Group and presented internationally. Many of the resulting works become part of the NYICAS Nonprofit Collection, serving as a living archive of contemporary cultural expression.
As part of our ongoing commitment to excellence, the NYICAS Award is presented annually during our exhibitions to honor a distinguished artist, designer, architect, or institution for their exceptional contribution to contemporary culture and creative innovation.
SPONSORS & PARTNERS
Direct support of the individuals, organizations, and institutions
At NYICAS, we operate as an independent, mission-driven nonprofit organization. While we are not backed by large endowments or permanent funding, our strength lies in the meaningful partnerships we build each year to bring our programs to life. Sustaining our international exhibitions, educational initiatives, and cultural projects requires collaboration, creativity, and shared purpose.
We proudly choose to finance our activities with the direct support of the individuals, organizations, and institutions who actively engage with our work. In turn, many of our partners receive funding or endorsement from a diverse range of private foundations, public agencies, cultural ministries, corporate sponsors, NGOs, and philanthropic networks.
Over the years, we have cultivated long-standing relationships with respected cultural institutions and visionary supporters who share our values of creativity, sustainability, and global cultural exchange.
If you are interested in partnering with us or supporting our mission, we warmly invite your participation. Together, we can expand the reach of contemporary art, education, and sustainability worldwide.
Let’s build something meaningful—together.
OUR APPROACH
Education, artistic expression, and critical thinking
At the New York International Contemporary Art Society (NYICAS), our approach is rooted in a deep sense of social responsibility and a commitment to creating a democratic, dynamic, and inclusive platform for cultural expression and exchange.
In an era of irreversible globalization, we believe it is more important than ever to honor and protect the diversity of beliefs, identities, and cultural traditions around the world. Rather than erase differences, we aim to celebrate them—to strengthen our shared intellectual and cultural heritage while fostering mutual understanding across borders.
Our core values include equality, empathy, and solidarity. We believe that meaningful cultural engagement begins with a sincere desire to listen, learn, and respect one another. Every individual has the right—and the responsibility—to promote values that uphold the freedom, dignity, and rights of all living beings.
To build a sustainable planet and a more peaceful world, we must rebalance our environmental, social, cultural, and intellectual goals with integrity—placing them at the heart of our decisions, alongside economic and financial considerations.
We believe that trust can only be rebuilt through horizontal, open, and transparent relationships, where ideas are shared honestly and respectfully. Visual and verbal communication, education, artistic expression, and critical thinking are vital tools in this process. By empowering people through the arts and culture, we aim to foster confidence in local identities and reinvigorate trust in global cooperation.
Our mission is not just to present art—but to use it as a force for dialogue, inclusion, and regeneration in every corner of the world.
OUR EXHIBITIONS
Art, Architecture, Design, Technology, and Sustainability
The New York International Contemporary Art Society (NYICAS) curates impactful, nonprofit exhibitions worldwide, with a strong presence in New York City and other major cultural hubs. Our exhibitions span Art, Architecture, Design, Technology, and Sustainability, reflecting our interdisciplinary and forward-thinking mission.
We present solo and group exhibitions featuring both established masters and emerging talents. We also offer curatorial expertise and support in organizing national pavilions at the Venice Biennale—one of the world’s most prestigious art platforms. Each exhibition is made possible through a global network of private sponsors, public institutions, foundations, and cultural partners committed to advancing the arts and fostering cultural diplomacy.
Our exhibitions are more than visual displays—they are platforms for dialogue, experimentation, and innovation. We showcase cutting-edge ideas and emerging trends in visual arts, architecture, design, and film, while addressing urgent global challenges through creative and critical perspectives.
With a strong commitment to accessibility and public engagement, all NYICAS exhibitions offer free admission and attract a diverse, global audience of artists, curators, academics, collectors, architects, cultural leaders, and members of the public. Collectively, our exhibitions welcome over 400,000 visitors annually, united by a shared passion for creativity and cultural exchange.
Each NYICAS exhibition is not only a celebration of artistic excellence, but also a catalyst for cross-cultural connection, sustainability awareness, and the advancement of the creative industries worldwide.
NYICAS MISSION
Uniting Art and Action for a Just and Sustainable Future
The mission of the New York International Contemporary Art Society (NYICAS), in collaboration with LLV Banca Privata (Private Bank in Latin means Banca Privata), is intrinsically connected to the transformative power of art.
Our goal is to promote a more just world and a sustainable planet that fosters global peace and the well-being of all individuals.
We believe that art transcends mere expression; it serves as a fundamental catalyst for social change and environmental stewardship. Art is a powerful force that can advocate for and promote justice and sustainability.
Our initiatives encompass innovative creative projects, community engagement, and collaborative exhibitions that explore diverse aspects of the human experience. These actions aim to inspire dialogue, encourage action, and unite individuals towards the common goal of peace and well-being for all.
At NYICAS, we believe that exhibitions alone are not enough to foster the meaningful exchange our world needs. To deepen dialogue and spark collaboration across disciplines, we organize summits, lectures, public debates, and seminars that bring together artists, designers, architects, entrepreneurs, researchers, and cultural leaders from around the globe.
Our summits are dynamic forums for sharing knowledge, challenging ideas, and cultivating innovative solutions across the fields of art, design, architecture, sustainability, technology, and global culture.
To date, NYICAS has hosted more than 50 high-level events—from intimate roundtables to international conferences—at leading institutions in the United States, Brazil, Egypt, Europe, and Asia.
If you're interested in learning more about our summit series or would like to co-organize an event with us, we welcome your inquiry. NYICAS is committed to expanding global collaboration, and we are ready to explore all possibilities with you.
Let’s build conversations that matter—together.
PUBLICATIONS
Exhibition catalogues, critical essays, artist books, limited editions, cinematographic works, and documentary films
At the New York International Contemporary Art Society (NYICAS), our publishing program is an essential extension of our mission to foster cultural exchange, intellectual dialogue, and creative innovation on a global scale.
We produce a wide range of content, including exhibition catalogues, critical essays, artist books, limited editions, cinematographic works, and documentary films. These publications serve to illuminate the ideas, individuals, and projects behind our exhibitions, symposia, and artistic collaborations.
Our editorial approach combines theoretical insight, accessible interviews, and compelling visual documentation, capturing the depth and diversity of contemporary art, architecture, design, and technology. Special projects—such as “Side by Side”—feature video interviews and essays that bring together voices from across cultures, offering fresh perspectives on sustainability, creativity, and global citizenship.
Through print, digital, and audiovisual formats, NYICAS publications reach hundreds of thousands of readers and viewers worldwide, providing an intimate look into the lives, processes, and visions of artists, designers, architects, and thought leaders across the creative industries.
Each publication is more than a record—it is a platform for connection, reflection, and inspiration in service of a more just, sustainable, and culturally engaged world.
ART PROJECTS & EDITIONS
The intersection of art, culture, and social consciousness
leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
Since 2010, the New York International Contemporary Art Society (NYICAS) has developed an evolving series of Art Projects and Limited Editions that embody our core mission: to foster cultural dialogue, artistic excellence, and creative innovation on a global scale.
Each project is the result of a close collaboration with a singular artist or collective, offering an in-depth exploration of their vision, creative process, and philosophical approach. These curated initiatives serve not only to showcase the artist’s work, but also to frame it within the broader context of contemporary global challenges—including sustainability, identity, memory, and transformation.
As part of these collaborations, NYICAS produces Limited Edition Prints and original artworks that carry the unique imprint of the artists involved. These works are not merely collectible—they are artistic and cultural artifacts, created in response to the times we live in and designed to inspire reflection, dialogue, and connection across borders.
Many of these editions have been generously donated by the artists to support our nonprofit mission, allowing us to reinvest in programming, education, and public engagement. Each edition contributes to the ever-growing NYICAS Collection, a curated archive that preserves the voices and visions shaping the contemporary art world.
Our Art Projects & Editions offer collectors, institutions, and the public a unique opportunity to engage with meaningful works that represent the intersection of art, culture, and social consciousness—leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
THE NYICAS COLLECTION
Media and disciplines, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, photography, and limited-edition prints
The NYICAS Contemporary Art Collection is a living archive of creative expression, built through the generous contributions of both established and emerging artists who share our commitment to cultural dialogue, sustainability, and global artistic exchange.
The collection encompasses a diverse range of media and disciplines, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, photography, and limited-edition prints. Each piece in the collection represents a unique perspective and contributes to a broader narrative of contemporary thought and creative innovation across borders.
The artworks within the NYICAS Collection are not only preserved as cultural heritage but are also activated through exhibitions, research, and education programs that connect audiences worldwide with the stories and visions behind each work. As part of our nonprofit mission, the collection serves to inspire reflection, promote inclusivity, and support the evolution of the creative industries through curated presentations and public engagement.
To help co-finance our cultural initiatives—including exhibitions, artist residencies, educational programs, and documentary projects—NYICAS occasionally offers selected works from the collection through strategic fundraising sales and benefit auctions, often in partnership with major art events, philanthropic foundations, and cultural institutions. These initiatives not only provide vital support for our programs, but also create new visibility and market opportunities for the artists involved.
Through careful stewardship and an enduring commitment to the values of artistic excellence, collaboration, and global exchange, the NYICAS Collection continues to grow—serving as a vital resource for future generations of artists, scholars, and cultural leaders.
THE NYICAS YEAR AWARDS
Celebrating Vision, Creativity & Impact in the Arts and Creative Industries
The NYICAS Year Awards, presented annually by the New York International Contemporary Art Society (NYICAS), honor outstanding achievements across disciplines that shape the future of culture, sustainability, and innovation. Rooted in our commitment to global dialogue and artistic excellence, the awards recognize individuals and institutions whose work exemplifies originality, impact, and a forward-thinking vision in the creative industries.
Each year, the NYICAS Awards highlight leaders and emerging voices whose contributions transcend borders and disciplines, reflecting the Society’s mission to promote a just world and a sustainable planet through culture.
Award Categories
The NYICAS Year Awards are granted in the following categories:
- Artist of the Year
Celebrating a visual artist whose body of work reflects both conceptual strength and cultural relevance. - Designer of the Year
Honoring a designer (graphic, fashion, industrial, or digital) who has redefined aesthetics and functionality in today’s world. - Architect of the Year
Awarded to an architect whose work demonstrates excellence in design and a commitment to environmental, social, or cultural sustainability. - Innovation in Creative Technology
Recognizing groundbreaking technological contributions that advance the creative industries (e.g., digital art platforms, AI tools, immersive experiences). - Sustainability Project of the Year
Awarded to a project or initiative within the creative field that demonstrates innovation and measurable impact in environmental or social sustainability. - Educational Institution of the Year
Honoring an academic or cultural institution whose programs, research, or community engagement significantly contribute to the growth and inclusivity of the creative sectors. - Young Talent Award
A special recognition for emerging artists, designers, or creators under 30 who show exceptional promise and originality.
Award Presentation & Exhibition
Each award is accompanied by a curated exhibition or public presentation, hosted in one of NYICAS’s international venues or during major events such as the Venice Biennale, NYC Art Week, or partner art fairs. The winners’ work is featured in the NYICAS Annual Publication and select projects may become part of the NYICAS Collection or be presented in international touring exhibitions.
Why It Matters
The NYICAS Year Awards are not only a celebration—they are a platform. By highlighting those who are pushing boundaries and inspiring new thinking, the Awards aim to foster a global community of change-makers in art, design, architecture, and cultural innovation.
THE NYICAS ACADEMY
Educating Visionaries. Empowering Change-Makers
The NYICAS Academy is the educational arm of the New York International Contemporary Art Society (NYICAS), created to advance knowledge, creativity, and professional development within the fields of Art, Architecture, Design, Technology, and other creative industries.
Rooted in our mission to foster global cultural exchange, social responsibility, and sustainability, the Academy offers immersive learning experiences that prepare participants not only for professional success but for meaningful contributions to the world through culture.
What We Do
The NYICAS Academy designs and delivers specialized programs that combine theoretical depth with real-world application. Our courses and initiatives are built around:
- Curated lectures by internationally recognized artists, architects, curators, gallerists, scholars, and industry professionals
- Hands-on workshops that develop both conceptual and practical skills
- Field visits to artist studios, galleries, museums, and international exhibitions—including privileged access to major events like the Venice Biennale, Art Basel, and NYICAS global exhibitions
- Project-based learning through active participation in exhibitions, summits, conferences, and other NYICAS cultural programs
These experiences are designed to illuminate the inner workings of the global creative ecosystem, offering participants the tools, connections, and confidence to thrive in an increasingly competitive and complex cultural landscape.
Who It's For: The Academy welcomes artists, architects, designers, curators, students, scholars, entrepreneurs, and cultural leaders—from emerging talents to experienced professionals—who are committed to advancing their careers while engaging with the most pressing cultural and sustainability issues of our time.
Why It Matters: More than an educational platform, the NYICAS Academy is a transformative experience. It empowers individuals to think critically, create boldly, and collaborate across cultures, equipping them to shape the future of the arts with purpose and integrity.
OUR FUTURE: GROWING A GLOBAL CULTURAL MOVEMENT
A dynamic and ever-expanding organization, dedicated to advancing global cultural dialogue.
The New York International Contemporary Art Society (NYICAS) is a dynamic and ever-expanding organization, dedicated to advancing global cultural dialogue through the arts, education, sustainability, and innovation. What began in New York City as a grassroots initiative has evolved into a multinational network, connecting artists, thinkers, institutions, and communities across borders.
As we look toward the future, our vision is clear: to build a globally connected cultural ecosystem that empowers creative voices, promotes equity and sustainability, and brings people together through the universal language of art.
To achieve this, we are actively:
- Launching new NYICAS Satellites in key cities around the world, each serving as a hub for exhibitions, education, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Expanding our Home Gallery Franchise model and the curatorial work of Saphira & Ventura Gallery worldwide, we aim to educate and empower individuals and institutions to become curators and cultural entrepreneurs within their own communities—transforming homes, galleries, and alternative spaces into vibrant cultural engines.
- Forging partnerships with foundations, academic institutions, government entities, and private sponsors, creating synergies that sustain and scale our mission.
- Developing cross-border initiatives in alignment with global conversations on climate action, cultural diplomacy, and inclusive creative economies.
Our goal is not just growth for its own sake, but meaningful, mission-driven expansion that amplifies artistic excellence, intercultural understanding, and shared global responsibility.
Through exhibitions, summits, publications, education programs, and innovative platforms, NYICAS will continue to empower cultural actors worldwide, transforming ideas into impact—and making art a catalyst for positive change in every corner of the world.
OUR TEAM
Global Minds. Shared Purpose. Collective Impact.
At the heart of the New York International Contemporary Art Society (NYICAS) is a diverse and growing international team of passionate individuals committed to shaping a more creative, inclusive, and sustainable world through the arts.
Currently composed of over 40 dedicated professionals—including curators, artists, architects, designers, educators, researchers, filmmakers, cultural producers, and project managers—our team operates across continents, bringing together a unique blend of local insight and global perspective.
Each member of our network contributes to the realization of our mission: to promote cultural dialogue, artistic excellence, and sustainability through exhibitions, education, and innovation. Whether organizing a major pavilion at Biennales, international art fairs and worldwide events such as G20 and COP30 diplomatic presidential events, curating a local Home Gallery event, coordinating a film project, or developing educational programs, our team works collaboratively across borders with integrity and vision.
We believe that meaningful cultural change is driven by people—people who care, who create, and who are willing to build bridges between communities and disciplines. It is through this collective energy and commitment that NYICAS continues to expand, inspire, and lead within the global creative landscape
CONTACT US
Let’s Start a Conversation That Inspires Change
At the New York International Contemporary Art Society (NYICAS), we believe that the most meaningful projects begin with a simple conversation. Whether you’re an artist, curator, architect, designer, educator, student, institution, or supporter of the arts—we’d love to hear from you.
We are always open to collaborations, proposals, ideas, and partnerships—even those that may seem unconventional. Our mission thrives on innovation, inclusivity, and the creative energy of those who dare to imagine a better and more sustainable world through culture.
If you’re interested in working with us, participating in one of our exhibitions or programs, or simply learning more about what we do, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our doors are open, and our team is here to welcome you.
Reach Us At:
New York International Contemporary Art Society (NYICAS)
📍 4 W 43rd Street, Suite 416
New York, NY 10036 – USA
📞 +1 (646) 964-6897
📧 info@artsvgallery.com
🌐 www.nyicas.org
Let’s connect—and create something extraordinary together.
Get in touch
Telephone: +1 (646) 964-6897
E-mail: info@artsvgallery.com
Address: 4 W 43rd St, New York, 10036-7408, New York, United States